Maj. Derek Vinson and unit send their thanks from Iraq

Over the holidays many of you sent cards, letters and packages to Cleveland County servicemen and women who are serving in Iraq and other places.

Sometimes when you do something nice for someone, you wonder if the small gesture was recognized or appreciated.

Let me assure you that the cards and packages you took the time to mail helped our soldiers feel remembered and honored. I’ve heard from several families who wanted to pass along their appreciation for what the people of Cleveland County did for their sons and daughters.

Here’s another thank you card that was waiting in my e-mail when I came back to work after Christmas.

It was a picture and message from Maj. Derek M. Vinson and sent by his sister, Roslyn Vinson-Braggs, and her family. Derek is serving his third tour in Iraq. His wife, Maj. Dikila Jones-Vinson, brigade signal and automation officer, will begin her tour in Iraq in February. He is a Burns High graduate and a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University with a degree in OSHA/Environmental Science. He is a member of First Baptist Church in Lawndale.

Derek is assigned to the 7th Sustainment Brigade as the Brigade General Supply Officer (GSO) out of Fort Eustis, Va. In Iraq, he is responsible for planning, coordinating, synchronizing, monitoring and controlling all classes of supply operations and services, including bottled and bulk water, ice production and storage and mortuary affairs. He manages the theater bulk fuel reserves in coordination with the Army Materiel Command and the 316th ESC and provides material management for one multiclass SSA and Joint Distribution Center. He is also responsible for the health, welfare, morale and professional development of 26 soldiers. He is scheduled to return home for a mid-tour leave in mid-August and will complete his tour in Iraq in mid-January 2009.

The e-mail from Derek said,
"This is a Christmas card sent from Maj. Derek M. Vinson, a native of Cleveland County and the son of Eugene and Annie Vinson and the grandson of Bernice Vinson and Bertha and G.W Coates, all of Lawndale. Derek sends holiday blessings to the wonderful people of Cleveland County and also sends a special thank you to all who have sent him packages, letters and e-mail. Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year from the 7th SB General Supply Branch.
"Thanks again,
"Roslyn Vinson-Braggs and family"
In a separate e-mail, Ms. Vinson-Braggs added that Derek would like for the people of Cleveland County to continue to pray for him as well as all of the deployed servicemen and women for their safe return home. He shares the goodies that he has received from home with his command, because many do not receive anything.